York’s always a wonderful place to visit with kids, and 2026 is shaping up to be no exception. Whether, like us, you’re lucky enough to live here, or you’re planning a trip with your family, there are already lots of events, activities and attractions to get excited about. Here are our top picks for family-friendly […]

From Vikings to Victorians, chocolate makers to history shapers, York is brilliant for families all year round. But if you’re wondering when is the best time to visit York with kids, the honest answer is: it completely depends on what kind of trip you want. Crowd-free exploring? Twinkly festive magic? Outdoor adventures or just hitting […]

If you’re looking for family-friendly winter walks near York, you’re spoilt for choice. A walk works wonders for everyone’s moods, especially during winter. Even if the weather’s uninspiring, getting outside and letting the little ones run free is the perfect antidote to too much sofa time (for them or the grown-ups). Whether they’re tiny or […]

Kick off the holiday season with York’s 2025 Nutcracker Trail! It’s one of the best things to do in York at Christmas with kids, and it’s totally free. This year’s theme is a kids’ takeover. Each nutcracker has been designed by a school-aged child from York and re-created by talented local artist, MarcoLooks. RECOMMENDED 🎄 […]

Wondering where to eat in York with kids? Good news – you’re in the right city. From brilliant brunch spots to incredible independents serving dishes you won’t find anywhere else, York has plenty of places that make eating out with kids a pleasure rather than a chore. Whether you’re grabbing something on the go, or […]

Jingle bells! Christmas in York 2026 will be here before we know it, and it’s going to be another magical festive season for families. If you’re looking for the best family-friendly Christmas events in York, you’ve come to the right place. From enchanting Santa’s grottos to sparkling Christmas light trails, side-splitting pantomimes to festive days […]

Snow is forecast in York this November, and this time, it’s guaranteed! Running from 10 November 2025 to 22 February 2026, JORVIK Viking Centre has been transformed into a spectacular snowy scene for A Winter Adventure at JORVIK. We stepped back in time to AD 960 to experience how York’s Vikings braved the cold, kept […]

The Little Vikings Awards 2026 shortlists announced! Voting is now open Drumroll, please… We’re thrilled to unveil the Little Vikings Awards 2026 shortlists, proudly sponsored by Indie York! Huge thanks to our sponsors Indie York, The York Proms, Stockeld Park, Mint Sauce Media, The Bloody Tour of York, Stonegate Medical Clinic, Yorkshire Foundry and Caramel […]

Piglets’ Adventure Farm’s Magical Sleigh Ride Experience is one of the best Santa experiences in York, and we’re giving away a ticket on one of the most sought-after dates to one lucky family! We went along last year and absolutely loved it – take a look at our review to find out what to expect. […]

Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York was our first panto of the season, and what a way to kick things off. Pantos are a big part of our family Christmas, and this one reminded us exactly why. It’s glittering, funny and pun-packed, with an excellent script, catchy songs and a good dose of audience […]

Silent night? Not in York! This festive season, enjoy full-throttle family fun at one of the brilliant Christmas shows and pantomimes in York. From laugh-out-loud performances to heart-warming stories, there’s something to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. For a more traditional start to your celebrations, York Minster’s Crib Service is a magical must-see and […]

Following the success of The Little Vikings I Spy Trail (as recommended by The Sunday Times!), we’re thrilled to launch a brand new family walking adventure: The Snickelways & Silly Street Names Trail. This fun, free, self-guided adventure takes families through York’s maze of magical snickelways – those narrow, winding passages that are easy to […]

We had no idea what to expect from Slava’s Snow Show at the Grand Opera House, and now we’ve seen it, we’re still not entirely sure! It’s an experience unlike anything we’ve ever had in the theatre, and almost impossible to sum up. Imagine tumbling into a strange, clown-filled fever dream after an overenthusiastic encounter […]

You shall go to the ball with this year’s sparkling musical pantomime, Cinderella! York’s most magical festive tradition is back – and it’s bigger, bolder and more star-studded than ever. Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York is set to be the city’s biggest Christmas show, boasting dazzling casting, glittering production values and a laugh-a-minute script. Beloved star of […]

When it comes to autumn days out in York, few things beat the fun of pumpkin picking. Instead of grabbing one from the supermarket, head to one of the brilliant pumpkin patches near York where you can wander the fields, hunt for the perfect pumpkin, and soak up the autumn atmosphere. From family-friendly farms to […]

It’s that time of year again – your chance to show your love and appreciation for the many fantastic family-friendly places in and around York! Now celebrating its 11th year, the Little Vikings Awards – this year sponsored by Indie York – recognises the very best York has to offer for children and families. It’s […]

Have you heard the exciting autumn news?! There’s a new pumpkin patch in town! Farmer Ed’s Pumpkin Patch, from the team behind Piglets Adventure Farm, launches on Saturday 27th September and it sounds like a lovely seasonal experience in York that’s definitely not just for kids. Expect pumpkins galore, marshmallow toasting, tasty street food and […]

While we’ll never stop hoping that they’ll one day bring back the massive York bonfire night and firework displays we enjoyed as kids – anyone else remember the sight of fireworks waterfalling down Clifford’s Tower or the massive, free displays on the Knavesmire? – there are still some fun ways to celebrate York’s naughtiest plotter. […]

Autumn in York just got a whole lot more fun, and tiny troopers are at the heart of it! The York Army Museum is throwing open its doors to young explorers and fearless fun-seekers with a line-up of activities designed for kids and families to dive into history like never before. 🛡️ What to Expect […]

This October, Stockeld Park is alive with spooky magic! Gather the whole family for heaps of frightfully fun activities, fang-tastic immersive theatre, and magical play. Stockeld Park is open every weekend throughout October, and daily from the 25th of October to the 2nd of November. AND you can save 15% on admission with our special […]